Tech-In-Check and Tougher-Than-Tech are exciting programs at YOSS which implement boundary-setting guidelines and education for YOSS talmidim and families to create a healthy relationship with technology and devices through incentive-based programming and tech-education.
Using a multifaceted program, our parent body partnered with us to create a culture that empowers children and families to develop the boundaries and commitments to maintain a healthy life/tech balance. The program underscores the important development and practice of self-control and self-discipline.
Over the past four years, Yeshiva of South Shore has successfully created and implemented a healthy approach and solution to the technology and device challenges facing our generation.
3 STEPS TO BECOMING A TECH-SECURE FAMILY!
- All devices that YOSS children have access to must be properly filtered and protected from social media, websites, or interactive gaming sites which can contain explicit and/or inappropriate content.
- The Yeshiva building and buses to and from Yeshiva are a 100% tech-free space where Talmidim thrive, free of distractions. Talmidim are not allowed to bring any device with any wifi capability to Yeshiva. This includes, but is not limited to, smart-watches, phones, mp3 players, and tablets.
*Please note: Tech Safe is required for all YOSS Talmidim. Tech in Check and Tougher-Than-Tech are highly encouraged & recommended to become Tech-Secure. One may do one without the other.
- Talmdim commit to remain screen-free during the school week. This includes TV, movies, gaming, and other non-educational technology. Talmidim are permitted to watch sports (not on YouTube).
- Talmidim cannot own their own device.
- Families develop their own guidelines for weekend tech usage, and parents are encouraged to create a weekly “Family Reward” to acknowledge their children’s efforts.
- Swag, prizes, and special trips further incentivize the children and empower parents to develop boundary setting skills.
- Summer TIC Challenges provide opportunities to continue the program even when out of yeshiva.
- Separate from our Tech-in-Check program is a grass-roots movement, initiated by forward-thinking parents committed to withhold Smartphones and personal internet devices from their children (at least) through 8th grade.
- This commitment addresses and resolves what would otherwise be endless “begging” for a device, and the inevitable “slippery slope” that comes once parents give in to their children.
- Tougher-Than-Tech is celebrated throughout the year with special incentives and by bringing the families together to strengthen their resolve and lend support to one another.